Hard times at Hard Times Cafe in Bethesda (Photos)

It's been a rough week for Hard Times Cafe on Del Ray Avenue in Bethesda. They've been operating without a liquor license in May, which means no booze. Given this month of DC teams being competitive in the playoffs, and Cinco de Mayo, you can imagine the financial loss in that department.

I stopped by last week during a Capitals game, and there were still diehard customers in seats despite the lack of adult beverages. The owner has been engaged in the local community for years, and that's just one reason over 700 people showed up to support him at a fundraiser during a financially-challenging health issue in 2012. So challenging times are not new for Hard Times Cafe.

But yesterday, the restaurant was closed for "spring cleaning" - never a good sign. A sign in the window did not indicate whether they will be open or closed today. 

There was no answer on the telephone yesterday.

A source tells me the restaurant is making an honest effort to resolve the issues at hand. Let's hope they can. As anyone in the restaurant industry can tell you, it's very tough to operate without liquor sales, and this is a good local business that is valued by the community.

HELP RAISE MONEY FOR GREG HOURIGAN, OWNER OF BETHESDA'S HARD TIMES CAFE

Come out to Hard Times Cafe tonight, anytime for now until close (midnight or later) at 4922 Del Ray Avenue here in downtown Bethesda, for a special fundraiser!

The downtown business community is joining together to raise funds to support Greg Hourigan, the cafe's owner, and his family.

Greg is suffering from leukemia, and is currently in the hospital.  As any downtown restaurant owner can tell you, the rents, and energy/property/liquor taxes in Montgomery County have never been higher.

So the community is lending a hand, and you can join them tonight!

A $20 donation is suggested, but donate whatever amount you wish.   Enjoy their famous chili, nacho bar and chicken wings.  Nearby neighbor Guardado's is even providing paella!

So stop by if you have time tonight.

If you can't, but would still like to help Greg and his family, please send your check to:

Greg Hourigan Fund
7910 Woodmont Avenue
Suite 1204
Bethesda, MD  20814